Equipment protection sleeves

ABSTRACT

Protective polymer covers for metal equipment are disclosed. The metal equipment is generally used with wire ropes, and the protective polymer covers provide a smooth protrusion free surface which is suitable for contact with a synthetic line. The protective polymer covers are shaped to conform to an outer peripheral surface of the metal equipment, and include at least one cover section having at least one means for connection at each of a first end portion and a second end portion. The protective polymer covers are composed of a thermosetting cast polyurethane having a Shore D hardness of greater than about 60 or a Shore A hardness of greater than about 85.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.14/248,716, filed on Apr. 9, 2014, which is hereby incorporated hereinby reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention pertains generally to durable polymer covers whichprovide a smooth, protrusion free surface suitable for contact by with asynthetic line. More specifically, the invention pertains to durablepolymer covers for metal deck or dock fittings which reduce the wear onsynthetic lines.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Marine vessels typically rely on ropes to hold them securely on a dock.For over 150 years, the marine industry has been using wire rope to makeits barge-to-barge, boat-to-barge, and mooring connections. Althoughwire rope is strong, it can be very dangerous for the marine workerbecause it is heavy and retains memory that creates uncontrolled andunpredictable stored energy. For example, wire rope can become fouledand/or bird nested when wound onto a winch drum. This can lead toinjuries related to quickly released slack from the rope while manuallyreleasing or tightening the winch drum, and specifically injuries to theworker's arms and hands while handling the rope to “free” and re-spoolit properly. Further, the memory and kinks in the wire ropesignificantly weaken the strength and viability of the wire when storedin a wound state for any length of time.

As the wire ropes deteriorate over time due to fatigue, corrosion,abrasion, mechanical damage, and overheating, they become even moredangerous to work with. Broken strands of wire and frayed wire can leadto lacerations and wounds on the hands, arms and legs of the marineworker. Furthermore, such damage significantly weakens the strength andviability of the wire creating the possibility of additional dangers forthe marine worker due to rope failure.

A recent solution to the aforementioned problems has been to usesynthetic lines. Current boat-to-barge, barge-to-barge, and mooringconnections all utilize deck and dock fittings intended to be used withwire rope. These fittings are most commonly made of cast steel thatrusts, and contains burrs and sharp edged grooves, all of which createan abrasive surface and are non-conducive to use with synthetic line.

Accordingly, there exists a need in the prior art for deck and dockfittings, and/or durable covers for existing fittings, which arecompatible with synthetic line.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The presently disclosed invention overcomes many of the shortcomings ofthe prior art by providing durable polymer covers for various types ofmetal equipment which reduce or eliminate the wear on synthetic lines.

The presently disclosed invention includes a releasably attachabledurable polymer cover for a metal structure which is used for ropecontact, the cover providing a smooth outer surface around the metalstructure which lacks protrusions and is suitable for contact with asynthetic line. The cover comprises at least one cover section composedof a thermosetting cast polyurethane having a Shore D hardness ofgreater than about 60 or a Shore A hardness of greater than about 85,the at least one cover section comprising a first end portion, a secondend portion, a first axial end, and a second axial end; and a means forreleasable attachment of the at least one cover section around the metalstructure, wherein the means for releasable attachment is positioned ator proximal to the first end portion and the second end portion of theat least one cover section. The durable polymer cover is shaped toconform to an outer peripheral surface of the metal structure such thata space between any portion of an inner surface of the durable polymercover and the outer peripheral surface of the metal structure is notgreater than 0.3 inches, such as not greater than 0.2 inches, or 0.1inches, or 0.05 inches, or 0.02 inches, or even 0.01 inches, when thedurable polymer cover is installed on the metal structure.

The at least one cover section may comprise at least one recessedchannel at each of the first end portion and the second end portionwhich is configured and sized to receive the means for releasableattachment.

According to certain aspects of the invention, the at least one recessedchannel at each of the first end portion and the second end portioncomprises: a top recessed channel positioned at or proximal to the topaxial end of each of the first end portion and the second end portion ofthe at least one cover section; and a bottom recessed channel positionedat or proximal to the bottom axial end of each of the first end portionand the second end portion of the at least one cover section.

When the cover section includes a recessed channel, the means forreleasable attachment may comprise a nut and bolt set, a screw, a tap-inpin, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, or in addition, the meansfor releasable attachment may comprise a ladder clip system, a ball andsocket system, a cam lock system, at least one set of internallypositioned high strength magnets, or a combination thereof.

The durable polymer cover may further comprise a secondary attachmentmeans comprising a hook and loop closure, an adhesive tape, an adhesive,at least one set of internally positioned high strength magnets, or acombination thereof, wherein the secondary attachment means ispositioned at or proximal to the first end portion and the second endportion of the at least one cover section, on the inner surface of thedurable polymer cover, or both.

According to certain aspects of the invention, the thermosetting castpolyurethane is formed by reaction of a polytetramethylene ether glycolwith an isocyanate.

According to certain aspects of the invention, the at least one coversection comprises at least one row of inset teeth at each of the firstend portion and the second end portion, wherein the means for releasableattachment comprises contact between the at least one row of inset teethon the first end portion and the at least one row of inset teeth on thesecond end portion, wherein the second end portion is on a same coversection as the first end portion or on an adjacent cover section.

According to certain aspects of the invention, the first end portion hasat least one projection configured to fit within at least one indent onthe second end portion, wherein the second end portion is on a samecover section as the first end portion or on an adjacent cover section.

The metal structure may be selected from the group comprising bollards,chocks, roller chocks, cleats, kevels, capstans, winches, sheaves,buttons, bits, double bits, H-bits, side bits, fairleads, fairleadrollers, pilings, dauphins, mooring rings, deck perimeters and dockperimeters.

According to certain aspects of the invention, one or both of the firstaxial end and the second axial end comprises a lip that restrictsrotational movement of the durable polymer cover about the metalstructure when the durable polymer cover is installed on the metalstructure.

According to certain aspects of the invention, the at least one coversection may further comprise at least one countersunk channel, and themeans for releasable attachment of the at least one cover section isused to directly attach the cover section to the metal structure throughthe at least one countersunk channel. The means for releasableattachment may comprise a screw, a tap-in pin, or a combination thereof.

The presently disclosed invention further includes a protective coverfor a cleat or kevel. The cover comprises two sections shaped to conformto an outer peripheral surface of the cleat or kevel such that a spacebetween any portion of an inner surface of the protective cover and theouter peripheral surface of the cleat or kevel is not greater than 0.3inches, such as not greater than 0.2 inches, or 0.1 inches, or 0.05inches, or 0.02 inches, or even 0.01 inches, when the durable polymercover is installed on the metal structure. Each section is composed of athermosetting cast polyurethane having a Shore D hardness of greaterthan about 60 or a Shore A hardness of greater than about 85. Further,each section comprises a base portion, a top portion, at least onecenter column portion connecting the base portion and the top portion,and a lateral edge. The cover further comprises a means for releasableattachment of the two sections in face-to-face relation, wherein themeans for releasable attachment is positioned at or proximal to thelateral edge of each section. The protective cover thus provides asmooth outer surface lacking protrusions which is suitable for contactwith a synthetic line.

The means for releasable attachment may comprise a nut and bolt set, ascrew, a tap-in pin, a ladder clip system, a ball and socket system, acam lock system, at least one set of internally positioned high strengthmagnets, or a combination thereof.

The protective cover for a cleat or kevel may further comprise asecondary attachment means comprising a hook and loop closure, anadhesive tape, an adhesive, at least one set of internally positionedhigh strength magnets, or a combination thereof, wherein the secondaryattachment means is positioned at or proximal to lateral edge of one orboth of the two cover sections, on the inner surface of the durablepolymer cover, or both.

The presently disclosed invention further includes a device for ropecontact on a marine deck or dock, the device comprising a metalstructure attachable to the marine deck or dock, wherein the metalstructure is configured to hold or secure a wire rope, and any of thedurable various polymer covers described above, wherein the durablepolymer cover provides a smooth outer surface around the metal structurewhich lacks protrusions and is suitable for contact with a syntheticline.

The presently disclosed invention also includes a protective cover for amarine deck or dock perimeter. The cover may comprise a top portion anda base portion, wherein the cover is configured to conceal at least theportion of the peripheral or edge surface of the deck or dock perimeterwhich is contacted by wire rope. The protective cover may furthercomprise at least one hook configured to attach to a corresponding hookor loop on the marine deck or dock, or which may be used to attach thecover to the marine dock or deck by connection means such as a screw ornut and bolt set. The protective cover may further comprise at least onemagnet configured to contact or hold onto the marine deck or dockperimeter.

The presently disclosed invention also includes methods for protectingsynthetic line from abrasion or damage on structures intended forcontact with wire rope. The method may comprise providing at least oneprotective cover comprising at least one cover section, as disclosedabove. The at least one cover section may be placed around the structureso that a first end portion of the at least one cover section isproximate to a second end portion of either the same cover section or anadjacent cover section. The at least one cover section may then besecured onto the structure by attaching the first end portion to theproximate second end portion. Alternatively, the lateral edges of twocover sections may be connected in face-to-face arrangement. Attachmentmay be by any means previously disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Aspects, features, benefits and advantages of the embodiments hereinwill be apparent with regard to the following description, appendedclaims, and accompanying drawings. In the following figures, likenumerals represent like features in the various views. It is to be notedthat features and components in these drawings, illustrating the viewsof embodiments of the present invention, unless stated to be otherwise,are not necessarily drawn to scale.

FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate perspective views of a button partially coveredby a single cover section of a durable polymer cover in accordance withcertain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 1D illustrates a close-up view of a portion of the cover sectionshown in FIG. 1C pointing out the connection point between two portionsof the protective cover in accordance with certain aspects of thepresent invention;

FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate perspective views of a button partially coveredby a single cover section of a durable polymer cover in accordance withcertain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 2C illustrates a close-up view of a portion of the cover sectionshown in FIG. 2B pointing out the connection point between two portionsof the protective cover in accordance with certain aspects of thepresent invention;

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate perspective views of a double bit where one bitis covered by a durable polymer cover, and the other bit is partiallycovered by a single cover section of the durable polymer cover inaccordance with certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 3D illustrates a cross-sectional view taken through line 3D-3D ofthe double bit partially covered by the cover section shown in FIG. 3C;

FIG. 3E is an end view of the boat double bit covered by the durablepolymer cover shown in FIG. 3C;

FIG. 3F illustrates a close-up view of a portion of the protective covershown in FIG. 3D pointing out the connection point between two portionsof the protective cover in accordance with certain aspects of thepresent invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a double bit partially coveredby an alternative embodiment of a durable polymer cover in accordancewith certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of adurable polymer cover prior to installation on a double bit inaccordance with certain aspects of the present invention;

FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate perspective views of a kevel partially covered bya single cover section of a durable polymer cover in accordance withcertain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 6E illustrates a partial view of a connection point between twoportions of the protective cover shown in FIGS. 6A-6D in accordance withcertain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 6F illustrates a close-up view of a portion of the protective covershown in FIG. 6E pointing out the connection point between two portionsof the protective cover in accordance with certain aspects of thepresent invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of adurable polymer cover prior to installation on a kevel in accordancewith certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of a durable polymer cover comprisingthree sections in accordance with certain aspects of the presentinvention;

FIG. 9 illustrates a close-up view of the connection point between twoportions of the protective cover shown in FIG. 8 in accordance withcertain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a corner or edge protectivecover in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a corner or edge protectivecover in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention;

FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate perspective views of a durable protective coverin accordance with certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a durable polymer cover inaccordance with certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates an exploded view of a durable polymer cover prior toinstallation on a button in accordance with certain aspects of thepresent invention;

FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of the durable polymer covershown in FIG. 14 installed on a button;

FIG. 16 illustrates a cross-sectional view taken through line 16-16 ofthe button covered by the durable polymer cover shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 illustrates a view of a radial end of a cover section showing acam and lock system releasable attachment means in accordance withcertain aspects certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 18 illustrates a view of a radial end of a cover section showing aball and socket releasable attachment means in accordance with certainaspects certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 19 illustrates a view of a radial end of a cover section showingmagnets as a releasable attachment means in accordance with certainaspects certain aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 20 illustrates a view of a radial end of a cover section showing atap in pin as a releasable attachment means in accordance with certainaspects certain aspects of the present invention; and

FIG. 21 illustrates a view of a radial end of a cover section showing atooth and ladder back system as a releasable attachment means inaccordance with certain aspects certain aspects of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, the presently disclosed invention is setforth in the context of various alternative embodiments andimplementations involving durable polymer covers which provide anon-abrasive surface suitable for contact with synthetic line. Thesecovers are designed to encase the rope contacting surfaces of varioustypes of metal equipment. As such, these covers may be used to encase orcover any type of metal equipment or fitting which is normally used withwire rope, and provide a low coefficient of friction cover which issmooth and protrusion free and thus reduces wear on the synthetic lineand protects the line from damage.

Various aspects of the durable polymer covers may be illustrated bydescribing components that are coupled, attached, and/or joinedtogether. As used herein, the terms “coupled”, “attached”, and/or“joined” are interchangeably used to indicate either a direct connectionbetween two components or, where appropriate, an indirect connection toone another through intervening or intermediate components. In contrast,when a component is referred to as being “directly coupled”, “directlyattached”, and/or “directly joined” to another component, there are nointervening elements shown in said examples.

Various aspects of the durable polymer covers may be illustrated withreference to one or more exemplary implementations. As used herein, theterm “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, orillustration,” and should not necessarily be construed as preferred oradvantageous over other variations of the devices, systems, or methodsdisclosed herein. “Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequentlydescribed event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that thedescription includes instances where the event occurs and instanceswhere it does not. In addition, the word “comprising” as used hereinmeans “including, but not limited to”.

Relative terms such as “lower” or “bottom” and “upper” or “top” may beused herein to describe one element's relationship to another elementillustrated in the drawings. It will be understood that relative termsare intended to encompass different orientations of aspects of thedurable polymer covers in addition to the orientation depicted in thedrawings. By way of example, if aspects of the durable polymer coversshown in the drawings are turned over, elements described as being onthe “bottom” side of the other elements would then be oriented on the“top” side of the other elements as shown in the relevant drawing. Theterm “bottom” can therefore encompass both an orientation of “bottom”and “top” depending on the particular orientation of the drawing.

Other than in the operating examples, or where otherwise indicated, allnumbers expressing quantities, ratios, ranges, etc. used herein are tobe understood as modified in all instances by the term “about” eventhough the term “about” may not expressly appear with the value, amountor range.

It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims,the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include the plural referenceunless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example,reference to any of “a” sleeve, “a” cover, “a” bolt may be taken to be areference to one or more of each and equivalents thereof, and so forth.Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skillin the art.

The presently disclosed invention includes protective covers for varioustypes of equipment, including at least marine deck or dock equipmentsuch as cleats, chocks, bits, buttons, kevels, capstans, winches,sheaves, fairleads, and bollards. The following definitions are providedfor clarity only, and are not meant to be limiting of the presentlydisclosed invention. For example, while a winch is indicated here as atype of marine deck or dock equipment, such may be found on landvehicles, rescue vehicles, or in other types of industry, such as thelogging industry.

As used herein, the term “cleat” may be taken to mean a type of fixturefound on docks and vessels, typically shaped like a very wide and shortcapital letter T. Closed types of cleats may have a solid base whileopen types may have two closely spaced legs in the center. In use, aline with a loop on the end can be passed through the legs and securedover the top portion (top of the T).

As used herein, the term “chock” may be taken to mean a type of fixturetypically found on a vessel which is designed to hold a line rather thanusing it as a tie point. A chock may be found near a cleat and generallyis used to keep the line in position so it does not move laterally andchafe or abrade. Chocks are generally designed as flattened loops thathave a narrow opening at the top to accept and remove the line.

As used herein, the term “bit” may be taken to mean a type of fixturewhich is a solid column (square or cylindrical) having a cross bar thatis of a lesser diameter and which forms a lowercase letter t. While bitsare mostly found on vessels near the bow and stern, they may be used ondocks. If there is a need to use something taller than a cleat in orderto accept large diameter lines.

As used herein, the term “button” may be taken to mean a type of fixturewhich is a solid cylindrical column and which may be used to threadcable between boats or barges and/or a dock. As used herein, the term“bollard” may be taken to mean a type of fixture which is a solidcylindrical column and which may be used to thread cable between boatsor barges and/or a dock. Bollards are typically larger than buttons andare most commonly found on docks and large ships.

As used herein, the term “capstan” may be taken to mean a type offixture which is a revolving drum, with a vertical axis, that is usedfor heaving in lines. As used herein, the term “winch” may be taken tomean a type of fixture which is a revolving drum, with a horizontalaxis, that is used for heaving in lines. As used herein, the term“sheave” may be taken to refer to a pulley wheel that turns inside ablock, and which contacts the rope. As used herein, the term “fairlead”may be taken to mean a type of fixture which is used to guide a line,rope or cable around an object, either out of the way or to stop it frommoving laterally. Typically, a fairlead will be a ring or hook. Afairlead may be a separate piece of hardware, or it could be a channelin the structure of the deck or dock.

A typical wire rope is about 1 inch by 65 feet and weighs over 120pounds. Replacing that rope with a synthetic line reduces the weight toa little over 15 pounds, or about 87% lighter than the wire rope.Further, in addition to being lighter, that same synthetic line is also14% stronger (1 inch wire breaking strength=103,400 lbs. of line pull; 1inch synthetic breaking strength=120,000 lbs. of line pull). Syntheticline has no memory so there is no stored energy (e.g. no violentbacklash when broken under high loads), it floats in water, and greatlyreduces the tripping hazards on barge decks. Additionally, syntheticline will not accumulate the burrs that wire rope does, and thuseliminates the danger of lacerations a worker faces when handling withwire rope.

Synthetic line is also more efficient than wire rope. Only one person isneeded for winch operation (eliminating the need for two or more peopleto operate), making and breaking connections can be done more quicklywithout sacrificing safety, and the take up of slack and finaltensioning on any tensioning device is easier and faster. Thus, the useof synthetic line represents a huge improvement in both the ease andefficiency of operation and safety for the worker.

While synthetic line has many advantages over wire rope, it has not beenglobally adopted. Often, this is due to a prohibitive expense associatedwith replacing the current equipment so that it may be used withsynthetic line. For example, in the marine industry, currentboat-to-barge, barge-to-barge, and mooring connections all utilizefittings intended to be used with wire rope. These fittings are mostcommonly made of cast steel that rusts and contains burrs and sharpedged grooves, all of which create an abrasive surface which isnon-conducive to use with synthetic line. The protective covers of thepresently disclosed invention solve this problem by providing smooth,durable polymer covers for the standard metal equipment normally usedfor contact by wire rope. These covers offer a low coefficient offriction surface that is protrusion free and thus reduces or eliminatesthe wear and tear on synthetic lines.

The covers may be installed and uninstalled with ease and in certaincases may be portable. The covers may be composed of durable polymerswhich provide a smooth, protrusion free and/or low friction surfacewhich is abrasion resistant. The durable polymers may include at leastnylon, polyester, polyether, polycarbonate, polystyrene, polyurethane,specially blended urethane polymers, polyethylene,polytetrafluorethylene, high molecular weight polyethylene, ultra-highmolecular weight polyethylene, hard rubber combined with othermaterials, or combinations thereof. In general, any durable polymerhaving a Shore D hardness of greater than about 60 or a Shore A hardnessof greater than about 85 may be used to form the durable polymer coversof the presently disclosed invention. The exact polymer selected maydepend on the size of the durable polymer cover, the environment inwhich it will be used, and the specific type of work and work load towhich it will be subjected.

In certain embodiments, the durable polymer material may bethermosetting cast polyurethane having a Shore D hardness of about 65 ora Shore A hardness of about 95. In certain embodiments, the polymericmaterial may be polyurethane formed from the polyol polytetramethyleneether glycol (PTMEG) and an isocyanate.

These durable polymers may create a low coefficient of friction coverthat may fit over existing fittings or equipment which was intended foruse with wire rope, and thus provide the user with the ability to usesynthetic lines without harming the line. Further, these covers maystill be strong enough to withstand the rigors of wire rope in the eventa user chooses to employ such.

The durable polymer covers of the presently disclosed invention may beused to cover any type of equipment or fitting normally used with wirerope. Examples of such equipment include marine equipment, such as adeck or dock structures normally used for wire rope contact.Non-limiting examples of such deck or dock structures include at leastbollards, chocks, roller chocks, cleats, kevels, capstans, winches,sheaves, buttons, bits, double bits, H-bits, side bits, fairleads,fairlead rollers, deck or dock perimeters, pilings, dauphins, andmooring rings. The covers may also be used to cover equipment used fortowing, such as the winches and rigging found in a tow truck or vehicle,or for rigging, such as the rigging used by window washers and painters.Further, other industries may find these covers useful, such as thelogging industry which has recently begun to switch from wire rope tosynthetic line.

The durable polymer covers are lightweight, weather resistant and mayonly require simple tools for installation and/or removal, such as forthe removal and re-installation required for deck fitting inspection orreplacement. According to certain aspects of the present invention, thedurable polymer covers may be installed and/or removed without tools,such as by hand.

The durable polymer covers of the presently disclosed invention maycomprise means for attaching the covers about a peripheral surface ofthe various types of equipment. Such means may include at leastadhesives, hook and loop closures, magnets, various types of tape,complementary teeth at opposing end, screws, or nuts and bolts. Each ofthese attachment means may be used individually or in combination, andmay be used to attach the cover to the equipment, such as by screwingthe cover directly to the equipment, and/or may be used to attach coversections to each other around the equipment. For example, the cover fora winch may comprise a single section having complimentaryprojections/indents at opposing ends and magnets embedded within thesingle section. The magnets may hold the section onto the equipment andthe complimentary projections/indents at the opposing ends may be fittedtogether to secure the section to itself thus forming a cover. The endsmay be further secured using an adhesive.

Referring now to the drawings, embodiments of the durable polymer coversof the presently disclosed invention are shown in FIGS. 1-16. FIG. 1Aillustrates a perspective view of a 6 inch marine button generallydesignated by reference number 100 partially covered by a cover sectiongenerally designated by reference number 110A, wherein the cover section110A provides a smooth surface which is suitable for contact by asynthetic line 2. As shown in FIG. 1A, the durable polymer covers maycomprise two cover sections (showing only one section in FIGS. 1A-1C),wherein each section comprises a top portion 112, a base portion 116,and a center column portion 114 which connects the top portion and thebase portion. Each cover section 110A may further comprise a first endportion and a second end portion, as is shown in FIG. 1B. Screws or nutsand bolts may be used to connect the cover sections along facing ends.An indent 118 may be provided to assist in insertion of the screw or nutand bolt set used to connect the cover sections along facing ends, aswell as a predrilled channel, which is shown as 120 in FIG. 1B.

FIG. 1C illustrates a side view of the button 100 partially covered by acover section 110A, and further pointing out placement of the connectionmeans 122 through the predrilled channels. FIG. 1D illustrates aclose-up view of the connection means from FIG. 1C, which shows apossible placement position for the nut and bolt set 122 within thecover section. The distance “a” between the edge of the connection means122 and side of the cover section which faces the peripheral surface ofthe marine button may be large enough to maintain structural integrityand strength for the cover section and may depend on at least theoverall size of the equipment to be covered and the material of thedurable polymer cover.

In the various embodiments of the durable polymer covers disclosedherein, possible connection means include screws and/or nuts and boltswhich may be used to secure the various cover sections to one anotherand/or to the rope contacting surface. The screws or nuts and bolts maybe formed of any material known in the art. In preferred embodiments,these parts may be formed from non-corrosive materials such as, forexample, stainless steel, nylon, or other plastics or polymers. Otherconnections means are also possible in place of, or in addition to,screws and/or nuts and bolts, several of which are described hereinbelow.

With continued reference to FIG. 1D, the connection means 122 may be anut and bolt, as shown. The bolt may be a socket head cap screw havingan outer head diameter which is the same as the matching nut. As such,the indent which accepts the nut and bolt 122 may be the same on bothsides/ends of the cover section. This may reduce production costs forthe cover sections and make installation easier as each section may beidentical. Further, in certain embodiments, the indent may be hexagonalin shape and may provide a tight fit for a comparably sized nut. Thismay make installation of the connection means quicker and easier becauseonly a single tool would be required to install the bolt side (via thesocket head cap) of the connection means.

FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate perspective views of a 10 inch marine buttongenerally designated by reference number 200 partially covered by acover section. With reference to FIG. 2A, the durable polymer covers maycomprise two cover sections (showing only one section in FIG. 2A),wherein each section comprises a top portion 212, a base portion 216,and a center column portion 214 which connects the top portion and thebase portion. Each cover section may further comprise a first endportion and a second end portion having predrilled channels (220 a, 220b). Screws or nuts and bolts which may be used to connect the coversections along facing ends may be inserted through these channels. Anindent 218 may be provided to assist in insertion of the screw or nutand bolt set used to connect the cover sections.

FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the button 200 partially covered by acover section 210A, and further points out placement of the connectionmeans (222 a, 222 b) through the predrilled channels. FIG. 2Cillustrates a close-up view of the connection means from FIG. 2B, whichshows a possible placement position for a nut and bolt set (222 a, 222b) within the cover section. As with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1D,the distance “b” between the edge of the connection means 222 and sideof the cover section which faces the peripheral surface of the marinebutton may be large enough to maintain structural integrity and strengthfor the cover section and may depend on at least the overall size of theequipment to be covered and the material of the durable polymer cover.

Further, and with continued reference to FIG. 2C, the bolts may besocket head cap screws having outer head diameters which are the same asthe matching nuts. As such, the indents which accept the nut and boltsets (222 a, 222 b) may be the same on both sides/ends of the coversection. As discussed above, this may reduce production costs for thecover sections and make installation of the durable polymer coverseasier as each section may be identical.

While the embodiment of the durable polymer cover shown in FIGS. 1A-1Dcontains only a single means for releasable attachment, or connectionmeans (120, 122), and the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A-2C contains twomeans for releasable attachment, or connection means (220 a, 220 b, 222a, 222 b), various other numbers of connection means and types ofconnection means are envisioned and are within the scope of thepresently disclosed invention (see for example FIGS. 4 and 5). Further,various types of connections means may be combined. For example, asshown in FIGS. 8 and 9, each cover section may comprise at least one rowof inset teeth (840) at each of the first end portion and the second endportion. Contact between the at least one row of teeth on the first endportion of the first cover section (810A) and the at least one row ofteeth on the second end portion of an adjacent cover section (810B) maylock the two cover sections together. In certain embodiments, each coversection may further comprise at least one channel 818 at each of thefirst end portion and the second end portion which is configured andsized to receive a screw or nut and bolt 822 (see FIG. 9), as was shownin the embodiments of FIGS. 1A-1D.

Additionally, while the embodiments of the durable polymer cover shownin each of FIGS. 1-4, 6, 7, 12, and 14-16 comprise two sections orportions, other configurations are within the scope of the presentlydisclosed invention. For example, the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 8comprises three cover sections (810A, 810B, 810C), while the embodimentshown in FIGS. 10, 11 and 13 comprise only one cover section.

In various embodiments of the durable polymer cover, each cover sectionmay further comprise at least one magnet which is configured to contactthe peripheral surface of the equipment to be covered. The magnet may beembedded within the durable polymer cover, or may be positioned on aninner surface of the durable polymer cover which is adjacent to theperipheral surface of the equipment. The magnet may aid in placingand/or holding the cover on the peripheral surface of the equipmentduring installation.

Shown in FIG. 12A is an embodiment of a durable polymer cover comprisingat least two cover sections (shown in FIG. 12A is one cover section1210), wherein each cover section has an upper rim portion 1212, acenter column portion 1214, and a bottom portion 1214. In the embodimentshown, the bottom portion 1216 extends outward and upward from thevertical axis of the cover, and thus provides a trough in which thesynthetic line may reside. Further, the at least two cover sections maybe attached to the rope contacting surface by magnets 1250, which areshown to be on an inner surface the cover section 1210 that would beadjacent to the peripheral surface of the rope contacting structure.These magnets may be positioned on an inner surface of each coversection in slots, or may be embedded within the cover sections, as isshown in FIG. 12B (1212 and 1216 are shown for reference).

The magnets included in the durable polymer cover shown in FIGS. 12A and12B may be the only means needed for attaching the durable polymer coverto the rope contacting surface on the marine dock or deck. Installationmay be as simple as placing the cover sections around the ropecontacting surface of the marine equipment. In this way, the durablepolymer cover may be installed or removed rapidly and with ease and maybe used as a portable part of the dock or deck equipment. Thus, a boatwhich uses synthetic line may make connections to a dock or anothervessel having only steel mooring equipment by simply installing thedurable polymer cover around the mooring equipment in order to protecttheir synthetic line, or by removing the durable polymer cover fromtheir own deck equipment so that wire rope may be used.

In other embodiments, each cover section may further comprise at leastone magnet at one end portion and a magnetically responsive material atthe other end portion configured to make contact with the magnet on anend portion of an adjacent section (see for example magnets 1910 in FIG.19). These later magnets may aid in placing and holding cover sectionstogether before the attachment means (screws or nuts and bolts) can beintroduced. In certain embodiments, the magnets may be used without anyother attachment means (screws or nuts and bolts) to attach the coversections around the rope contacting surface of the metal equipment.

These magnets may be hard or permanent magnets which are placed atspecific positions, as described above, or may be magnetic polymers,which may be placed at any position along the cover section such as, forexample, an inner or end portion layer. Magnetic polymer materials areadvantageous as they can be easily and cheaply formed into complexshapes, and can be corrosion resistant and low friction. Exemplarymaterials include Dupont™ Teflon®, hard rubber, or nylon mixed withatomized ferromagnetic material. Other similar cheap polymers includeepoxy and polyester resins. The use of such magnetic polymers avoids theuse of traditional ferrite block and metal parts, which are heavy andcostly to cut and shape, especially when the shape may be curved.

In certain embodiments, portions of the ends of each durable polymercover may further comprise ultra-high bond (UHB) or very high bond (VHB)tape, such as 3M™ VHB™ tape, which may aid in placing and holding coversections together before the attachment means (screws or nuts and bolts)can be introduced. Such tape may also be placed on any portion of aninterior surface of each cover section which is adjacent to theperipheral surface of the equipment. As such, the tape may aid inplacing and/or holding the cover section(s) on the peripheral surface ofthe equipment during installation.

In various embodiments of the durable polymer cover, each cover sectionmay further comprise at least one section of hook and loop fastener,such as Velcro®, which is configured to contact a complimentary sectionof hook and loop fastener placed on the peripheral surface of theequipment. As with the tapes and magnets discussed above, thesefasteners may aid in placing and/or holding the durable polymer cover onthe peripheral surface of the equipment during installation. Further,and as discussed above for the tape and magnets, each section maycomprise one section of Velcro® or hook and loop fastener at an endportion which is configured to contact a complimentary section ofVelcro® or hook and loop fastener placed at the other end portion. Inthis way, adjacent facing ends of the cover sections may be broughttogether and held in place while a secondary connection means isinserted. The hook and loop fastener may be used alone as the onlyconnection means, or may be used in combination with one or more of anyof the other connection means disclosed herein.

Additional connection means include at least glues or adhesives, whichmay be placed on the inner surface of the cover sections and/or on theend portions (as described above for the magnets and the hook and loopfasteners).

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate perspective views of a marine double bitpartially covered by a durable polymer cover according to embodiments ofthe presently disclosed invention. Each column (300A or 300B) of thedouble bit may be covered by at least two cover sections, wherein thedurable polymer cover provides a smooth surface which is suitable forcontact by a synthetic line 2. Each cover section may comprise a topportion 312, a base portion 316, and a center column portion 314 whichconnects the top portion and the base portion. Each cover section mayalso comprise a means for connecting the cover sections at the topand/or bottom of the durable polymer cover. Shown in FIG. 3A is aconnecting notch 318 positioned on facing sides of the top portion 312of each cover section.

As shown in FIG. 3B, the durable polymer cover which covers each column(300A or 300B) of the double bit may comprise two cover sections,wherein each cover section may comprise a top portion (312 a, 312 b), abase portion (316 a, 316 b) and a center column portion (314 a, 314 b)which connects the top and base portions. In certain embodiments, thebase portion (316 a, 316 b) of each cover section may extend outward andmay cover the base region of the double bit, or a lip. This not onlyaids in further protecting surfaces which may come into contact with therope, but may also act to stop rotation of the cover on the bit. Apredrilled channel 336 may extend through the base portion 316 of eachcover section and may provide a means for connecting the at least twocover sections around each column (300A or 300B) using a screw or nutand bolt set.

Shown in FIG. 3C is a projection 330 which extends from an end portionof one cover section and which is configured to fit within an indent onan end portion of an adjacent cover section (shown as 332 in FIG. 3D).Diameters “c” and “d” are also shown and may depend on at least the sizeof the equipment and the materials of the cover sections.

FIG. 3D shows a cross-sectional view of the double bit partially coveredby the durable polymer cover taken along line 3D-3D of FIG. 3C. The topportion 312, center column portion 314, and base portion 316 are shown,as well as pre-drilled channels positioned in the base portions havingconnection means (screw or nut and bolt) inserted therein (328 a, 328b). Screws or nut and bolt sets may be used to secure the cover sectionsaround each column of the double bit. Diameters “e”, “f” and “g” areshown in FIG. 3E and may depend on at least the size of the equipmentand/or the materials of the durable polymer cover. FIG. 3F illustrates aclose-up view of the connection means from FIG. 3D, which shows apossible placement position for the nut and bolt set (320) within thetop portion of the cover section.

An alternate embodiment of a durable polymer cover for a double bit isshown in FIG. 4. As shown, the durable polymer cover may have a verticalaxis which is aligned with the vertical axis of each column (400A, 400B)of the double bit. The cover for each bit may comprise at least twocover sections, where each cover section may be screwed or bolted to anadjacent cover section, and may cover at least a portion of a column(400A, 400B). Each cover section may comprise a top rim portion (412 a,412 b), a center column portion (414 a, 414 b), and a bottom portion(416 a, 416 b). Further, each cover section may also comprise a firstvertical end portion and a second vertical end portion. In certainembodiments of the durable polymer cover, each cover section may furthercomprise at least one connecting notch 418 on an exterior side whichallows for easy insertion of a screw or nut and bolt set 422.

Another alternate embodiment of a durable polymer cover for a double bitis shown in FIG. 5. This embodiment may comprise at least two coversections each having a center column portion (514 a, 514 b) and a bottomrim portion (516 a, 516 b), and a cap portion (512). Each cover sectionmay be screwed or bolted (screws 522) to an adjacent cover sectionand/or directly into the bit. Additionally, the cap section 512 may bescrewed or bolted to an adjacent cover section and/or directly into thebit. Additional portions of covering material may be added at positionswhich may be contacted by the synthetic line. As shown in FIG. 5, theadditional material 530 may be at an edge of the double bit whichcontacts the synthetic line such as, for example, on an outer edge ofthe double bit.

The presently disclosed invention may also include rope contactingstructures useable on marine docks or decks. As shown in FIG. 5, thepresently disclosed invention may include a double bit which comprisestwo columnar bit structures having predrilled channels at variouspositions which may be configured to accept screws or nut and bolt sets(522). In various embodiments, the double bit may be composed of durablestructural materials such as polymers or may be composed of materialsmore commonly known in the art such as steel or iron. The double bit mayalso comprise projections 540 which would keep a durable polymer coverfrom rotating about the bit once installed.

FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate perspective views of a marine kevel 600 partiallycovered by a durable polymer cover according to embodiments of thepresently disclosed invention. As shown, the kevel may be covered by atleast two cover sections (a single section 610 is shown). Each coversection 610 may cover half of the kevel as taken along a vertical planethrough the longitudinal center of the kevel. Each cover section maycomprise a top portion 612, a base portion 616, and at least one centercolumn portion (614 a, 614 b) which connect the top portion and the baseportion. Each cover section may further comprise a lateral end portionwhich defines an edge or end.

Each cover section may also comprise a means for connecting the coversections at the top and/or bottom of the protective cover. Shown in FIG.6B is a connecting notch 621 having a predrilled channel positioned onfacing sides or ends of the bottom portion (616, see FIG. 6C) of eachcover section, and pre-drilled channels (619, 620) positioned on facingsides or ends of the top portion (612, see FIG. 6C) of each coversection.

Also shown in FIGS. 6C and 6D are the diameters “h”, “i”, “j”, and “k”which indicate the thickness of the cover section at various points.These diameters may be large enough to maintain structural integrity andstrength for the cover section and may depend on at least the overallsize of the equipment to be covered and the material of the durablepolymer cover.

Shown in FIGS. 6D and 6E is a possible placement for the predrilledchannel 620 in the top portion, and the predrilled channel 621 in thebottom portion of a protective cover section. Screws or nut and boltsets may be used to secure the protective cover sections around themarine kevel. FIG. 6F illustrates an exploded view of one connectionmeans from FIG. 6E, which shows a possible placement position for thenut and bolt set (622) within the top portion of the cover section. Asdiscussed above with reference to FIGS. 1D, 2C, and 3E, the connectionmeans may be a nut and bolt, wherein the bolt may be a socket head capscrew having an outer head diameter which is the same as the matchingnut. As such, the indent which accepts the nut and bolt 622 may be thesame on both sides/ends of the cover section. This may reduce productioncosts for the cover sections and make installation easier as eachsection may be identical. Further, in certain embodiments, the indentmay be hexagonal in shape and may provide a tight fit for a comparablysized nut. This may make installation of the connection means quickerand easier because only a single tool would be required to install thebolt side (via the socket head cap).

An alternate embodiment of a durable polymer cover for a kevel is shownin FIG. 7. As shown, this embodiment may comprise at least two coversections which may have an upper portion (712 a, 712 b), at least onecenter column portion, and a bottom portion (916 a). Further, one coversection may be screwed or bolted to an adjacent cover section and/ordirectly into the kevel. As an example, screws 722 may be placed throughpredrilled channels 720 in the cover section and 730 in the kevel alongan upper portion, a lower portion, or both. In alternative embodiments,the two cover sections may comprise other attachment means such as, forexample, magnets, adhesives, tapes (UHB, 3M™ VHB™), or hook and loopclosures, on either the lateral an internal surface which is adjacent tothe peripheral surface of the cleat or kevel. These attachment means maybe used alone, in combination, or in combination with a screw to attachthe cover to the cleat or kevel.

The durable polymer covers of the presently disclosed invention areintended to be used to protect synthetic line from abrasion or damage onstructures intended for contact with wire rope. As such, at least onecover section may be placed adjacent to the structure so that a firstend portion of the at least one cover section is proximate to a secondend portion of either the same cover section or an adjacent coversection. The at least one section may comprise magnets which act toreleasable hold the section onto the structure. The at least one sectionmay then be secured around the structure by attaching the first endportion to the proximate second end portion. The attachment may be byany means previously disclosed. In embodiments where the durable polymercover is portable, no attachment may be needed at the first and secondends and the cover may be held in place by the magnets.

Shown in FIG. 10 is a protective cover 1010 for a rope contactingsurface. The rope contacting surface may be an edge or corner of amarine vessel or dock, and the protective cover 1010 may be shaped toconform to an edge or corner of the marine vessel or dock. In anembodiment, the protective cover 1010 may have an upper portion 1012,and a lower portion 1014 and may be attached to the deck of the marinevessel or to the dock by a hook 1020 formed on the upper portion 1012 ofthe protective cover. In alternative embodiments, a screw or nut andbolt set may be used to directly attach the protective cover to the deckof the marine vessel or to the dock. As discussed above with referenceto the durable polymer covers, the presently disclosed protective covermay further comprise other attachment means, such as adhesives, tapes,hook and loop closures, or magnets.

Shown in FIG. 11 is an alternative embodiment of a protective cover 1110for an edge or corner of a marine vessel or an edge or corner of a dockwhich may come into contact with a synthetic line. The protective cover1110 may be shaped to conform to an edge or corner of the marine vesselor dock as described above. As such, the protective cover 1110 may havean upper portion 1112 and a lower portion 1114 and may be attached tothe deck of the marine vessel or to the dock by a hook 1120. Further,the protective cover may comprise at least one magnet 1150 which ispositioned on an inner surface of the cover and which is configured tocontact the peripheral surface of the rope contacting structure (corneror edge surfaces).

Also included in the presently disclosed invention are protective coversfor the drums of a winch or capstan. Embodiments previously describedand shown to cover buttons and bits may also be used to cover the ropecontacting surfaces of a winch or capstan drum. Alternatively, and asshown in FIG. 13, a cover 1310 specifically designed to cover a drum ona winch or capstan is also included in the presently disclosedinvention. The cover 1310 may include a cover comprising interlockingteeth 1340. These teeth may have a keystone design (as shown) or mayinclude any other type of projection and indent that may allow adjacentends of two cover sections, or opposite ends of a single cover section,to be attached and to form a smooth surface over which the syntheticline may pass. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the cover maycomprise a single cover section 1310 which may be flexible enough to beformed around the drum and locked thereon using the interlocking teeth1340. An inner surface of the cover 1310 which is adjacent to theperipheral surface of the drum may further comprise an additionalconnection means such as, for example, magnets, tapes (UHB, 3M™ VHB™) orhook and loop fasteners.

Another alternate embodiment of a durable polymer cover for a button isshown in FIGS. 14-16. This embodiment may comprise at least two coversections (1410 a, 1410 b) which may be may be screwed or bolted (screws1422 a) to an adjacent cover section using countersunk channels in thecover sections (as detailed above) and/or may be directly attached tothe button 1400 by screws 1422 that are received in countersunk channels1420 in the two cover sections (1410 a, 1410 b) that are aligned withchannels 1430 in the button 1400.

The presently disclosed invention may also include rope contactingstructures useable on marine docks or decks. As shown in FIGS. 14 and16, the presently disclosed invention may include a button 1400 havingpredrilled channels 1430 at various positions which may be configuredand sized to receive screws 1422. In various embodiments, the button1400 may be composed of durable structural materials such as polymers ormay be composed of materials more commonly known in the art such assteel or iron. The button 1400 may also comprise projections 1440 whichwould keep a durable polymer cover from rotating about the button 1400once installed. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 16, the projections 1440 mayinclude an indent 1432 or other feature that may further assist inaligning and restricting rotation of the durable polymer cover on thebutton 1400.

With reference to FIGS. 17-18, additional means for releasableattachment are illustrated. FIG. 17 shows a cam and lock system that maybe positioned at radial ends (such as the first and second ends, see forexample FIG. 1B) or on the lateral edges (such as shown for the kevelcover in FIGS. 6A-6C). The cam and lock system may include a cam 1710and lock 1720 which connect to provide a means for releasableattachment. Each cover section may comprise one or more cams and a matchnumber of locks (two each are shown in FIG. 17). Each end of the coversection may include only cams or lock, or may include a combination. Asshown in FIG. 17, one end includes two cams 1710 and one end includestwo locks 1720 so that the cover sections are identical, thus reducingthe production costs for the durable polymer cover. As shown in FIG. 18,the means for releasable attachment may include a ball 1810 and socket1820.

With reference to FIG. 20, additional means for releasable attachmentinclude tap-in pins 2010, and/or one way rivets. Further, tooth andladder-back systems, as shown in FIG. 21, which include teeth 2120 oneach end that mesh to form a connection are possible. Such may be placedalong small portions of the ends, such as shown by the tabs 2110 in FIG.21, or may be placed along a longer portion of the ends.

While the durable polymer covers have been described in the context ofcovering marine deck or dock structures, other embodiments and fields ofuse are within the scope of the presently disclosed invention. Forexample, the covers disclosed herein may also be used to cover equipmentused for towing, such as the winches and rigging found on a tow truck orvehicle, or for rigging, such as the rigging used by window washers andpainters. Further, other industries may use such covers, such as thelogging industry which has recently begun to switch from wire rope tosynthetic line for cable logging.

In each of the embodiments shown and discussed herein, the covers may becomposed of durable polymers such as, for example, nylon, polyester,polyether, polyurethane, specially blended urethane polymers,polyethylene, polytetrafluorethylene, high molecular weightpolyethylene, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, or hard rubbercombined with other materials. In general, any durable polymer having aShore D hardness of greater than about 60 or a Shore A hardness ofgreater than about 85 may be used to form the durable polymer covers ofthe presently disclosed invention. In certain embodiments, the durablepolymer material may be thermosetting cast polyurethane having a Shore Dhardness of about 65 or a Shore A hardness of about 95. In certainembodiments, the polymeric material may be polyurethane formed from thepolyol polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG) and an isocyanate. Suchdurable polymers may create a low coefficient of friction surface thatreduces the wear and damage to synthetic line yet may be strong enoughto withstand the rigors of wire rope in the event a user chooses to usesuch.

In certain embodiments, the durable polymeric material may furthercomprise a backing or embedded material which may reinforce the coversections. For example, fiberglass fibers may be incorporated as abacking material during the casting process. The fibers may be providedas an open weave or may comprise chopped fibers which are distributedthroughout the polymeric material. The added reinforcing materials maybe used to help the disclosed covers resist high pressures or localizedstrains when under load with a synthetic line.

The choice of the hardness of the polymer material may be dictated bythe final use and thickness of the cover. In each of the aforementionedexamples (see for example FIGS. 1-3), the cover sections are shown tohave varying thicknesses throughout their profile. In certainembodiments, however, each cover section may be formed with a uniformthickness throughout the profile such as, for example, 1 inch. In otherembodiments, such as the cover shown in FIG. 13 which comprises only onesection, the combination of the choice of durable polymer and coverthickness may provide a durable cover having enough flexibility to beopened around the equipment and closed to form the cover. For example, apolymer material having a Shore D hardness of 65 and a thickness of ½inch may be useful to provide a winch cover.

While specific embodiments of the invention have been described indetail, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art thatvarious modifications and alternations and applications could bedeveloped in light of the overall teachings of the disclosure.Accordingly, the particular arrangements, systems, apparatuses, andmethods disclosed are meant to be illustrative only and not limiting asto the scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A releasably attachable durable polymer cover fora metal structure which is used for rope contact, the cover comprising:at least one cover section composed of a thermosetting cast polyurethanehaving a Shore D hardness of greater than about 60 or a Shore A hardnessof greater than about 85, the at least one cover section comprising afirst end portion, a second end portion, a first axial end, and a secondaxial end; and a means for releasable attachment of the at least onecover section around the metal structure, wherein the means forreleasable attachment is positioned at or proximal to the first endportion and the second end portion of the at least one cover section,wherein the durable polymer cover is shaped to conform to an outerperipheral surface of the metal structure such that a space between anyportion of an inner surface of the durable polymer cover and the outerperipheral surface of the metal structure is not greater than 0.2 incheswhen the durable polymer cover is installed on the metal structure, andwherein the durable polymer cover provides a smooth outer surface aroundthe metal structure which lacks protrusions and is suitable for contactwith a synthetic line.
 2. The durable polymer cover of claim 1, whereinthe space between any portion of the inner surface of the durablepolymer cover and the outer peripheral surface of the metal structure isnot greater than 0.1 inches when the durable polymer cover is installedon the metal structure.
 3. The durable polymer cover of claim 1, whereinthe at least one cover section comprises at least one recessed channelat each of the first end portion and the second end portion which isconfigured and sized to receive the means for releasable attachment. 4.The durable polymer cover of claim 3, wherein the at least one recessedchannel at each of the first end portion and the second end portioncomprises: a top recessed channel positioned at or proximal to the topaxial end of each of the first end portion and the second end portion ofthe at least one cover section; and a bottom recessed channel positionedat or proximal to the bottom axial end of each of the first end portionand the second end portion of the at least one cover section.
 5. Thedurable polymer cover of claim 3, wherein the means for releasableattachment comprises a nut and bolt set, a screw, a tap-in pin, or acombination thereof.
 6. The durable polymer cover of claim 1, whereinthe means for releasable attachment comprises a ladder clip system, aball and socket system, a cam lock system, at least one set ofinternally positioned high strength magnets, or a combination thereof.7. The durable polymer cover of claim 1, further comprising: a secondaryattachment means comprising a hook and loop closure, an adhesive tape,an adhesive, at least one set of internally positioned high strengthmagnets, or a combination thereof, wherein the secondary attachmentmeans is positioned at or proximal to the first end portion and thesecond end portion of the at least one cover section, on the innersurface of the durable polymer cover, or both.
 8. The durable polymercover of claim 1, wherein the thermosetting cast polyurethane is formedby reaction of a polytetramethylene ether glycol with an isocyanate. 9.The durable polymer cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one coversection comprises at least one row of inset teeth at each of the firstend portion and the second end portion, wherein the means for releasableattachment comprises contact between the at least one row of inset teethon the first end portion and the at least one row of inset teeth on thesecond end portion, wherein the second end portion is on a same coversection as the first end portion or on an adjacent cover section. 10.The durable polymer cover of claim 1, wherein the first end portion hasat least one projection configured to fit within at least one indent onthe second end portion, wherein the second end portion is on a samecover section as the first end portion or on an adjacent cover section.11. The durable polymer cover of claim 1, wherein the metal structure isselected from the group comprising bollards, chocks, roller chocks,cleats, kevels, capstans, winches, sheaves, buttons, bits, double bits,H-bits, side bits, fairleads, fairlead rollers, pilings, dauphins,mooring rings, deck perimeters and dock perimeters.
 12. The durablepolymer cover of claim 1, wherein one or both of the first axial end andthe second axial end comprises a lip that restricts rotational movementof the durable polymer cover about the metal structure when the durablepolymer cover is installed on the metal structure.
 13. A releasablyattachable durable polymer cover for a metal structure on a marine deckor dock, the cover comprising: two cover sections composed of athermosetting cast polyurethane having a Shore D hardness of greaterthan about 60 or a Shore A hardness of greater than about 85, the atleast one cover section comprising a first end portion, a second endportion, a first axial end, a second axial end, and at least onecountersunk channel; and at least one means for releasable attachment ofeach of the two cover sections directly to the metal structure throughthe at least one countersunk channel, wherein the durable polymer coveris shaped to conform to an outer peripheral surface of the metalstructure such that a space between any portion of an inner surface ofthe durable polymer cover and the outer peripheral surface of the metalstructure is not greater than 0.1 inches when the durable polymer coveris installed on the metal structure, and wherein the durable polymercover provides a smooth outer surface around the metal structure whichlacks protrusions and is suitable for contact with a synthetic line. 14.The durable polymer cover of claim 13, wherein the means for releasableattachment comprises a screw, a tap-in pin, or a combination thereof.15. The durable polymer cover of claim 13, further comprising: asecondary attachment means comprising a hook and loop closure, anadhesive tape, an adhesive, at least one set of internally positionedhigh strength magnets, or a combination thereof, wherein the secondaryattachment means is positioned at or proximal to the first end portionand the second end portion of the at least one cover section, on theinner surface of the durable polymer cover, or both.
 16. A device forrope contact on a marine deck or dock, the device comprising a metalstructure attachable to the marine deck or dock which is configured tohold or secure a wire rope, and the durable polymer cover of claim 1,wherein the durable polymer cover provides a smooth outer surface aroundthe metal structure which lacks protrusions and is suitable for contactwith a synthetic line.
 17. A protective cover for a cleat or kevel, thecover comprising: two sections shaped to conform to an outer peripheralsurface of the cleat or kevel such that a space between any portion ofan inner surface of the protective cover and the outer peripheralsurface of the cleat or kevel is not greater than 0.2 inches, whereineach section is composed of a thermosetting cast polyurethane having aShore D hardness of greater than about 60 or a Shore A hardness ofgreater than about 85, wherein each section comprises: a base portion, atop portion, at least one center column portion connecting the baseportion and the top portion, and a lateral edge; and means forreleasable attachment of the two sections in face-to-face relation,wherein the means for releasable attachment is positioned at or proximalto the lateral edge of each section, wherein the protective coverprovides a smooth outer surface lacking protrusions which is suitablefor contact with a synthetic line.
 18. The protective cover of claim 17,wherein the space between any portion of the inner surface of thedurable polymer cover and the outer peripheral surface of the metalstructure is not greater than 0.1 inches.
 19. The protective cover ofclaim 17, wherein the means for releasable attachment comprises a nutand bolt set, a screw, a tap-in pin, a ladder clip system, a ball andsocket system, a cam lock system, at least one set of internallypositioned high strength magnets, or a combination thereof.
 20. Thedurable polymer cover of claim 17, further comprising: a secondaryattachment means comprising a hook and loop closure, an adhesive tape,an adhesive, at least one set of internally positioned high strengthmagnets, or a combination thereof, wherein the secondary attachmentmeans is positioned at or proximal to lateral edge of one or both of thetwo cover sections, on the inner surface of the durable polymer cover,or both.